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SMSL DL200

SMSL

SMSL DL200

~$189

Estimated price · may vary by retailer

A feature-rich challenger that offers incredible value. It uses the newer ESS ES9039Q2M chip and provides high power output. It is often cited as a 'Topping DX5 killer' because it offers similar specs and performance for nearly half the price.

Specifications

ChipsetESS ES9039Q2M
InputsUSB-C, Optical, Coaxial, Bluetooth
Outputs6.35mm SE, 4.4mm Balanced, RCA, TRS Balanced Line Out
FeaturesMQA-CD Decoding, 7 Filters, Remote Control

Things to Know

  • Menu system via the 7-segment display is cryptic and hard to memorize.
  • Headphone output jacks are on the front, but line-out switching requires the remote or menu diving.
  • Some units exhibit a 'pop' sound when switching sample rates (firmware dependent).

Reviews

At $190 one can have a state-of-the-art DAC plus a transparent headphone amp that can drive almost all the headphones out there... Balanced TRS pre outs produce slightly better SINAD than unbalanced RCA outs.

AudioScienceReview (jkim)

The build quality is nice and it has a heft to the chassis that other SMSL stuff in this price bracket doesn't have.

AudioScienceReview (jamesmafyew)
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